We recently went to Florida and everywhere we went tiny lizard scampering across the grass, climb building walls, and even hung upside down on lounge chairs. These brave reptiles seemed to have no fear of humans, but had the intelligence and speed to get out of the way when the possibility of being stepped on threatened.

How do you know if an animal is bringing you a message? For a brief week, we were in a place surrounded by lizards and sea birds. This was where they lived we were the tourists. If an animal attempts to make direct contact with you, it is bringing you a message. This is different from some creature trapped in an exhibit that can’t get away. An osprey landed near us while we were at the beach. Instead of flying away, it came closer and closer. So much so, that it posed for pictures with us. The other birds simply flew away.

I also had a close encounter with a lizard that climbed up my lounge chair and the two of us engaged in a staring contest for a minute. He didn’t scamper away, but instead chose to spend time with me. Most of the time, you’ll know if an animal had made a deliberate attempt to contact you. Look for it, because not all contacts are that obvious.What is the symbolism behind a lizard? A lizard reminds us to take a gut check. Are we working toward what will really benefit us and those around us or are we going with whatever is popular? Take time to really think about your dreams. Some you may have shelved because you considered them impractical.

Anyone who has ever grabbed a lizard by the tail may have ended up with a tail and no lizard. This reptile is one of the few creatures who can regenerate a lost body part. If it is your totem animal, then you are more fortunate than most. While you won’t be growing an extra arm, leg, or head, you will be able to regenerate things you’ve lost. It can be anything from opportunities, love, health, or even wealth.

Does the lizard show up in your dreams? The reptile knows when an immediate danger threatens and moves away from it in a rapid fashion. Is there something or someone endangering you? The lizard can vanish when it needs to reminding us of our hidden gifts. Consider what yours are.